Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

Car remotes are a wonderful convenience for drivers. They allow you to unlock doors, gain access to trunks and even start the engine. But, these remotes sometimes stop working at odd times.

Before you head to the dealer, consider some quick fixes if your key fob stops working. These tips could save you money.

Keyless Entry System

Instead of fumbling around with keys in your pocket or purse, you can simply walk to your car, press a button on your key fob, and then open the doors and start the engine. It's an easy feature that makes driving a car more comfortable and secure. But, like all devices it's possible that the keyless entry system can fail due to frequent use or due to other factors. If you're having problems with your system, you can either go to the dealer or contact a locksmith.

The way a keyless entry system works is by sending out radio signals, and then searching for a response signal from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, it will trigger to unlock the vehicle doors and also activate the computer onboard. Certain systems have another transmitter located in the trunk of the car that opens when you move one foot underneath it.

Each key fob is assigned a unique digital identification code by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed using an exclusive process known as "programming". This involves turning the ignition of the vehicle several times in a specific sequence, and could require pulling buttons or levers, or removing the fuse.

Once a key fob has been programmed to the car's keyless entry system, it transmits its digital identification code, along with a function code that instructs the car what to do (lock, unlock or open the trunk). The receiver in the car verifies that the transmitter is the person it claims to be using an authentication and encryption procedure. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it is authorized.

There are concerns that a skilled criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it when the system isn't expecting it. To combat this issue, the majority of keyless entry systems use rolling code that ensures that every new transmitter signal received by the car has a different counter than the previous one.

Batteries

The most frequent cause of the car remote key fob not working is a dead battery. If you have an extra key fob it's a cheap and easy fix. Fortunately, the majority of fobs have standard watch-style batteries that can be purchased at hardware stores or big-box retailers for $10 or less. A quick search on the internet or your vehicle's owner's manual will provide directions on how to disassemble the fob that you have been using and replace the battery.

Be cautious not to damage any circuits or antennas inside the case once you've removed your battery. They are likely holding the key fob's program to your specific car, and messing with them can cause it to become impossible to program (and most likely not work). If you need to move key fobs, be careful. Certain key fobs could have fasteners which can easily open and scatter key fob pieces all over your living space.

The majority of key fobs have one hole that can be used with a screwdriver or other pry tool to pop open the case, however it's best to put your tool on the outside of the case first, like you would peeling an apple or orange. Do not apply too much pressure, as the case of the key fob is usually made of plastic, and is susceptible to breaking or cracking when you apply too much force.

Make sure you ensure that the size and type of the battery to your key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others only require one. A bad battery could render your remote keyfob useless.

If the issue persists then you can try it again using your key fob after installing the new battery. If this fails then you'll be required to determine if your fob is suffering from an issue that is more complicated and requires a specialist diagnosis. It could be necessary to have your Mobile key repair fob reprogrammed by a dealer or buy a new one.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob may be small however they're packed with electronics. It's not a surprise that they malfunction from time to time. If the car key button suddenly ceases to function, you can usually fix it yourself.

One of the most common reasons a car key repairs key remote key repairs stops working is that dirt or crud has become lodged between the buttons. To remove this obstruction take care to remove both batteries and scrub each button with a cotton swab coated with alcohol rubbing. Make sure to dry them thoroughly prior to replacing the batteries.

It's possible that your key fob is damaged in some way, like being dropped on concrete or accidentally scratched. If this is the situation, you can check your key fob's functionality by using another one.

The door lock sensor could have stopped working in your vehicle. The sensor is a tiny metal component attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not unusual for it to break due to weather conditions or extended usage. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This will reset the sensor.

If all else fails, you can test the functionality of the spare key by attempting to unlock and lock your doors using it. If the spare key fob repairs near me doesn't work, it could be necessary to find an 24 hour locksmith that can offer automobile key repair in order to get your remote key repair near me working again.

If your car's key fob does work, and it's still not locking or unlocking your vehicle, you can try to reprogram your computer system. But keep in mind that if you've owned the same key fob for some time, it's going to need to be programmed every couple of months to ensure it is working properly with your vehicle. This isn't the best option however it's much better than having to replace your remote car key repair completely.